Characterization, detection of a reference number, and selection of suitable winding materials for rollers of a printing press

ABSTRACT

In connection with a method for characterization of a layer, a method and a device for determining a characteristic number, as well as a method for selecting a suitable dressing on rollers, or suitable geometries of rollers of a printing press, a characterizing number for characterizing a layer is formed, or employed, which characterizes the roll-off behavior independently of a measuring device or an application in a particular printing group.

[0001] The invention relates to a method for characterization, a method and a device for determining a characteristic number, as well as methods for selecting suitable dressings on rollers, or suitable geometries of rollers of a printing press in accordance with the preambles of claims 1, 2, 6, 9, 11, 13, 29 or 31.

[0002] In printing presses, in particular rotary printing presses, ink is applied between one or several rollers of an ink unit, between the ink unit and printing group cylinders, possibly between printing group cylinders, and from one printing group cylinder against a counter-pressure cylinder (all called rollers in what follows) to a web, for example a paper web. To this end, the transfer of the ink between two adjoining rollers, which preferably cooperate with each other through the web, preferably takes place between a roller with a “hard” and a roller with a “soft” surface.

[0003] Since a certain amount of surface pressure is required for transferring the ink, at least the roller with a soft surface undergoes a deformation in the area of the latter. This deformation of the soft surface designed, for example, as an elastomer (dressing, rubber blanket, metallic print blanket, sleeve, coating) causes a change in the effective diameter of this roller, depending on the material behavior and size of a compression (for example as a function of the distance between the rollers, different thicknesses of the web, etc.), in the course of its rolling off on the cooperating roller, i.e. it leads to changes in the surface pressure and in the roll-off. With rollers which are driven mechanically or electronically synchronized, this can lead to different surface velocities as a function of the material used and of the compression, and therefore to slippage in the nip.

[0004] The slippage generated in this manner results in a tangential force component because of friction, and therefore a reduced print quality (pushing, blurring), interference with the transfer of power, as well as as a reduced service life of printing formes, or dressings.

[0005] A print blanket is known from DE 43 15 456 A1, which has an incompressible and a compressible elastomeric layer, wherein the latter increases the tolerances in the printing roll-off. With an optimized layer structure it can be achieved that in certain contact areas of the cooperating cylinders almost no change in the length of the surfaces occurs, i.e. a difference in the angles of rotation of two cylinders rolling off on each other is independent of the compression in these areas. It is possible to determine the difference in the angles of rotation for different dressings and different contacts by means of a laboratory model, wherein a driven first cylinder and a cylinder which freely runs along and is provided with the dressing, are placed against each other.

[0006] A characterizing number for characterizing the roll-off behavior of an elastic dressing is known from an article published by Applicant on page 211 of the TAGA Proceedings 2001, entitled “The Effect of Printing Blankets on the Rolling Condition of Printing Cylinders”. This makes it possible for the designer to calculate the transmission ratios between transfer and forme cylinders. A device for determining the roll-off behavior has an externally driven and a friction-driven roller, whose angular velocities can be measured by means of opto-electronic angle decoders.

[0007] The object of the invention is based on providing a method for characterization, a method and a device for determining a characteristic number, as well as methods for selecting suitable dressings on rollers, or suitable geometries of rollers of a printing press.

[0008] In accordance with the invention, this object is attained by means of the characteristics of claims 1, 2, 6, 9, 11, 13, 29 or 31.

[0009] The advantages which can be obtained by means of the invention rest in particular in that a quantitative description of the dressings in respect to their conveying, or roll-off behavior is made possible, and that the characterization created in this way is independent of the geometry of a measuring device, as well as independent of the geometry of a print unit. The characteristic number used for characterizing the dressing is corrected for the specific geometries and can be alternatingly used with a measuring device or the print unit. The description is no longer purely qualitatively usable (for example positively conveying, negatively conveying), but quantitatively.

[0010] By means of the method for characterizing a dressing by means of a characteristic number, an unequivocably defined language for the producer of dressings and the designer of the printing press is created which, on the one hand, permits a tailor-made construction of the printing press in connection with a desired, pre-selected dressing, and on the other hand a definite selection of a dressing for a pre-selected configuration of a printing press. Both can already be clarified at the outset, an expensive test program, which otherwise must be performed at the printing press for the special configuration and each type of dressing, can be omitted.

[0011] It is therefore an advantageous solution to select a dressing for a given pair of cylinders in such a way that, in the course of a compression because of an incompressible component, it is extended to such a degree that the reduced distance to the center of rotation is compensated. Such a requirement can be determined by means of the method, and an appropriate dressing can be selected.

[0012] In the other way it is therefore advantageous to select the geometry of the printing group for a special, given dressing in such a way that in an area of variable compression the roll-off behavior does not, or only slightly, depend on the compression.

[0013] The measured values required for forming the characteristic number are determined by means of a measuring device having two rollers. In an advantageous embodiment, the measuring device has a lever, which transmits the displacement movement for detecting the distance, or the change in the distance (draw-in). A greater lever ratio can be additionally achieved by means of an eccentric, which moves the cylinder, wherein the lever is rigidly connected with the bearing ring to be swiveled.

[0014] The characteristic number obtained for a dressing can be applied to the most diverse printing group configurations and is independent of the geometry of the measuring device used only the algebraic specification between the geometry and the characterization must be defined and known.

[0015] The possibility of configuring a printing group, which is optimized in respect to its roll-off behavior, is also advantageous. For example, a transfer cylinder of double circumference is embodied with a dressing with a characteristic number α of 0.989 to 0.999, a transfer cylinder of single circumference with a dressing with a characteristic number α of 0.980 to 0.995, if it cooperates with a counter-pressure cylinder of substantially the same circumference. The cited characteristic numbers α must be observed for a relative compression, at least in a range relevant to actual use.

[0016] The said embodiment of the printing group is particularly advantageous in the case of transfer and counter-pressure cylinders which are driven independently of each other. Motor loads, motor design and control outlay are minimized by this.

[0017] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are represented in the drawings and will be described in greater detail in what follows.

[0018] Shown are in:

[0019]FIG. 1, the passage of a compressible rubber blanket through the roller gap,

[0020]FIG. 2, the passage of an incompressible rubber blanket through the roller gap,

[0021]FIG. 3, measured transmission ratios when varying the compression,

[0022]FIG. 4, qualitative representation of the transmission ratios,

[0023]FIG. 5, an exemplary embodiment of a print unit,

[0024]FIG. 6, an exemplary embodiment of a print unit,

[0025]FIG. 7, an exemplary embodiment of a print unit,

[0026]FIG. 8, an exemplary embodiment of a print unit,

[0027]FIG. 9, an exemplary embodiment of a measuring device,

[0028]FIG. 10, a detailed lateral view in accordance with FIG. 9.

[0029] A machine, for example a printing press, has rollers 01, 02, which roll off on each other and form a roller gap 03 in the area of their contact with each other. In the case of a printing press, these can be rollers 01, 02 of an inking unit, a coating unit, or cylinders 01, 02 of a printing group. In the exemplary embodiment represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cylinders 01, 02 represent a forme cylinder 01 of an effective diameter of D_(wPZ) and a transfer cylinder 02 of an offset printing group. One of the cylinders 01, 02, for example the transfer cylinder 02, has a soft elastomeric layer 06 of a thickness t on the surface of a mainly incompressible, inelastic core 04 of a diameter of D_(wGZK). The core 04 and the layer 06 together constitute an effective diameter D_(wGZ) of the transfer cylinder 02. The effective diameter D_(wPZ) is determined at the surface of the forme cylinder 01 which is effective during roll-off, and possibly includes a printing forme, not represented, placed of the surface of a base body. The cylinder 01 with the hard surface can also be embodied as a counter-pressure cylinder 01 cooperating with the transfer cylinder 02.

[0030] As a function of the mutual contact between the two cylinders 01, 02, i.e. their axial distance, the largely incompressible, inelastic surface of the forme cylinder 01 “dips” into the soft layer 06 and causes a compression S in the otherwise unaffected course of the layer 06. This compression S causes the above mentioned problems in the roll-off of the two cylinders 01, 02, depending on the properties of the material (compressible and/or elastic behavior) of the layer 06.

[0031] The present invention is now based on the approach of making available a description of the roll-off behavior of such a layer 06, which is independent of the specific applications, or measuring devices, by means of which a suitable layer 06 can be selected, or a dimensioning of the rollers 01, 02 can be provided. Assuming an ideally compressible layer 06 (for example cork or the like), and an ideally incompressible layer 06 (for example solid rubber), the limits for the roll-off behavior can be set. The actual layer 06 in the form of an inhomogeneous composite material consisting, for example, of a textile material, air cushion layer, adhesive and rubber cover plate, i.e. both compressible and incompressible components, lies within the above mentioned limit values.

[0032] The solution now consists in determining, or defining, the relative position of the measured, or desired behavior in case of the two theoretically determinable extreme behaviors—purely compressible, purely incompressible—.

[0033] An example for the analytic calculation of the idealized limit values will be provided in what follows. In the course of this, the conveying velocity of the layer 06 in the roller gap 03 is examined for both ideal limit values.

[0034] In the ideally compressible case, the compression S of the layer 06 in the roller gap 03 causes a condensing of the layer 06. The velocity v₀ at the undisturbed surface of the layer 06 is reduced in the contraction zone to the velocity v₁ because of a reduced effective diameter D_(wGZ) (FIG. 1). The effective diameter D_(wGZ) is reduced in the area of the connecting line of both cylinder centers by twice the amount of the compression S:

D _(wGZ) =D _(GZK)+2*(t−S)   [1]

[0035] For a number of revolutions or transmission ratio I expressing a lead and/or a lag from the numbers of revolutions n_(GZ), n_(PZ), or frequencies w_(GZ), w_(PZ) of the cylinders 01, 02 $\begin{matrix} {I = {\frac{n_{GZ}}{n_{PZ}} = {{\frac{\omega_{GZ}}{\omega_{PZ}}\quad {wherein}\quad \omega} = {\frac{v}{r} = \frac{2*v}{D}}}}} & \left\lbrack {2,3} \right\rbrack \end{matrix}$

[0036] in the compressible case with the surface velocity v_(p) of the forme cylinder 01, the result is $\begin{matrix} {I_{komp} = \frac{2*v_{1}*D_{wPZ}}{D_{wGZ}*2*v_{P}}} & \lbrack 4\rbrack \end{matrix}$

[0037] In the case of “true rolling”, i.e. the cylinders roll off freely on each other, the surface velocities v_(p), v₁ of the two cylinders 01, 02 are equal. The slight slippage because of the bearing friction of the cylinder driven by means of friction is negligible. Thus, in the ideal compressible case, the transmission ratio can be represented as $\begin{matrix} {I_{komp} = {\frac{\omega_{GZ}}{\omega_{PZ}} = {\frac{D_{wPZ}}{D_{wGZ}} = \frac{D_{wPZ}}{D_{GZK} + {2*\left( {t - S} \right)}}}}} & \lbrack 5\rbrack \end{matrix}$

[0038] When conveying incompressible media through diametrical contractions, the continuation equation applies, which states that the mass throughput always remains constant. Applied to the compression S of the layer 06 in the print gap 03, this means an increase in the conveying velocity in the contraction, or contact zone of the cylinders 01, 02 rolling off on each other (FIG. 2).

[0039] The mass throughput ahead of the roller gap 03 (over a cross-sectional surface A₀) and in the contraction of the printing gap (over a cross-sectional surface A₁) is constant.

A ₀ *v ₀ =A ₁ *v ₁ (continuity)   [6]

[0040] The cross-sectional surfaces A₀, A₁ can be determined from a length L and the thickness t, or the thickness reduced by the compression S, t−S

A ₀ =L*t A ₁ =L*(t−S)   [7]

[0041] Assuming a velocity profile, which is linear in the contraction zone, between a velocity on the inside v_(Gi) and on the outside v_(Ga) of the layer 06, and that the edge velocities are determined by the surface speeds of the cylinders 01, 02, the integration for the conveying velocity provides the mean velocity. Thus, the continuity equation [6] can be written as follows: ${t*\left( \frac{v_{Gi} + v_{Ga}}{2} \right)} = {\left( {t - S} \right)*\left( \frac{v_{Gi} + v_{P}}{2} \right)}$

[0042] With the equation [3] for the circular frequency omega and several transformations, the following equation results as the number of revolutions or transmission ratio for the case of an incompressible limit: $\begin{matrix} {I_{inkomp} = {\frac{\omega_{GZ}}{\omega_{PZ}} = \frac{D_{wPZ}*\left( {t - S} \right)}{{D_{GZK}*\left( {t + S} \right)} + {2t^{2}}}}} & \lbrack 8\rbrack \end{matrix}$

[0043] The transmission ratios for some measurements are represented in FIG. 3. For each layer 06, i.e. for several rubber blankets 06, the number of revolution ratios n_(GZ)/n_(pZ) for four different compressions S were recorded and the transmission ratio I was calculated therefrom.

[0044] The connection of the measurement points results in a good approximation in straight lines, all of which start in the intersection point of the also entered limit cases. The partially recognizable offset from the intersection point has as its reason the different thicknesses t of the rubber blanket 06 used.

[0045]FIG. 4 shows the number of revolutions, or transmission ratios I in the ideally compressible, ideally incompressible and actual cases in a schematic representation.

[0046] For characterizing a layer 06, for example a rubber blanket 06, first a measurement for determining the ideal transmission ratio I_(real) is performed by means of a suitable measuring device (see below) for at least one measurement point (a compression S). The geometries of the measuring device are known, so that with knowing the thickness t, the theoretical transmission ratios I for the ideally compressible and ideally incompressible case are already known, or can be calculated. Now a characterizing number α is formed on the basis of a ratio, for example between the actually occurring transmission ratios I in the course of a measurement with an appropriate measuring device and the idealized limit cases, each in connection with the same compression S. Based on ratios which were idealized and linearized at least in sections, the characterizing number α defined in this way for all compressions S, or at least for the considered area, is a constant, which objectively describes the roll-off behavior (stretching or compression) of the layer 06.

[0047] For example, the characterizing number α can be defined as follows: $\begin{matrix} {\alpha = {\frac{A}{B} = \frac{I_{real} - I_{inkomp}}{I_{komp} - I_{inkomp}}}} & \lbrack 9\rbrack \end{matrix}$

[0048] wherein A represents the difference between the actual and the theoretically incompressible transmission ratio I, and B the difference between the theoretically compressible and theoretically incompressible transmission ratio I, each for the same compression S. In the definition of the characterizing number α in accordance with [9], α=0 in the case of an actual layer 06 behaving in an ideally incompressible manner, and α=1 in the case of an actual layer 06 behaving in an ideally compressible manner.

[0049] The characterizing number α can also be formed by means of a different type of algebraic specification, which describes the relative position of the measured actual transmission ratios I to the position of the extreme, theoretically determinable transmission ratios I. Thus it is possible to select a different standardization, for example by means of multipliers a spread of the value range, or a displacement by addition/subtraction. The differences in the quotients can also be reversed, or the numerator and denominator can be interchanged. However, the algebraic specification [9] which is the basis for knowing the characterizing number α is essential in order to arrive from an appropriately characterized rubber blanket 06 at the suitable configuration of the cylinders 01, 02, or from the configuration of the cylinders 01, 02 at the suitable rubber blanket 06.

[0050] In the place of number of revolution ratios I it is also possible to employ leads or lags, ratios of angular speeds, or other comparable values describing a lead or lag, and by matching the specifications accordingly.

[0051] In the method for determining a characterizing number α, which characterizes the layer 06, is corrected for the geometry of the measuring device, and is constant at least in sections, first the conveying behavior is measured (for example by means of the resultant transmission ratio I_(real)) as a function of the compression S, and the position of this measurement point (or of several measurement points) in relation to the corresponding extreme points, which can be theoretically determined for the measuring device, is determined. To this end, the measured and theoretically determined transmission ratios I_(real), I_(komp), I_(inkomp) will be compared with each other, at least in sections, in particular in accordance with an algebraic specification [9]. In the simplest case the characterizing number α for a compression S can be determined with the use of a single measured value.

[0052] In the reverse manner, it is possible to calculate in advance the transmission ratio I of the cylinders 01, 02, or a slippage to be expected for the respective compression S, for a rubber blanket 06 by means of the known characterizing number α, for example measured by the manufacturer, the associated algebraic specification, as well as the known cylinder geometries (diameters D_(GZK), D_(wPZ)). In accordance with the specification [9], the following applies:

I _(real)=α*(I _(komp) −I _(inkomp))+I _(inkomp)   [10]

[0053] Thus, the characterizing number α makes possible the quantification of the effective diameter D_(wGZ) of the transfer cylinder 02 in connection with a defined compression S, and therefore, in the case of an angularly synchronous running of the cylinders 01, 02, also a calculation of the occurring slippage.

[0054] In a method for laying out the cylinders 01, 02, the diameter D_(wPZ), D_(GZK) of one of the cylinders 01, 02 is determined on the basis of the known characterizing number α, which is constant over at least sections, for the proposed layer 06 of a thickness t, and with the preset format (diameter D_(GZK), D_(wPZ)) of the other cylinder 02, 01, for example to avoid slippage or unnecessary power output in the drive mechanism. It is thus possible, for example, to determine the required diameter D_(GZK) of the core 03, or the entire diameter D_(wGZK)+2 t of the transfer cylinder 02, for a rubber blanket 06 of a known characteristic number α, a desired course (vertical height and slope in the diagram) of the transmission ratio I and compression S, as well as with the known diameter D_(wPZ), for example of the forme cylinder 01.

[0055] In this way the roll-off, or deformation behavior of the layer 06 (rubber blanket 06, sleeve, metallic print blanket, coating/dressing/shell of a inking roller) described by means of the characteristic number α can be included in the selection of the diameters D_(GZK), D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ) for the ideal roll-off. By means of the characteristic number α for a given rubber blanket 06 it is possible to lay out the diameters D_(GZK), D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ) in such a way that an optimal roll-off is achieved. In a further development the diameters D_(GZK), D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ) can also be optimized in such a way that the deviation from the ideal roll-off becomes minimal for a spectrum of different rubber blankets 06. For the use of different rubber blankets 06, or for the use of a special rubber blanket 06 in an already existing printing group, it is possible already prior to printing to determine the number or thickness of pads between the surface and the rubber blanket 06 for matching the diameter D_(GZK), and to take it into consideration during set-up.

[0056] In the reverse way it is possible in a method to select a suitable layer 06, for example a rubber blanket 06, on the basis of predetermined printing group geometries (diameter D_(GZG), D_(wPZ)) that initially extreme cases of the conveying behavior as a function of the compression S are determined algebraically, then a desired course (slope, vertical height of the diagram) for the conveying behavior of an actual layer 06 is determined at least in sections, and subsequently the characterizing number α, corrected for the specific geometry, of the required layer 06, for example a rubber blanket 06, is formed in that a relative position of the desired course, or of a value in respect to the algebraically determined values or courses, is determined at least for one value of the compression S.

[0057] It is now possible to select a rubber blanket 06 with an appropriate characterizing number α, provided the latter was formed on the basis of the same algebraic specification for the description of the relative position. If different algebraic specifications were used for the measurement and determination of the characterizing number α at the rubber blanket 06, and for the determination of the desired characterizing number α on the basis of the geometry of the cylinders 01, 02, these can be converted into each other when the specifications are known.

[0058] By changing the cylinder geometry, the straight lines of the theoretically determined transmission ratios I_(komp), I_(inkomp) are “tilted” in such a way, and the intersection point with the I axis is displaced, that with a fixed characterizing number α (retained rubber blanket 06) the absolute position of the straight line for the actual transmission ratio I_(real) is changed, while the relative position is retained.

[0059] With a change of the characterizing number α (section of a rubber blanket 06 with different characteristics), but with the same cylinder geometries in the printing group, the straight lines of the theoretically determined transmission ratios I_(komp), I_(inkomp) are retained, but the relative one for the actual transmission ratio I_(real) is tilted and has a different slope.

[0060] Thus, a dressing 06 with a characteristic number α matching a defined printing group geometry in general does not fit a geometry which differs therefrom, in particular a different ratio of the diameters D_(GZK), D_(wPZ).

[0061] In an advantageous embodiment with a roll-off which is largely independent of position, the dressing 06 and the printing group geometry are matched to each other in such a way that in at least a range which is relevant to actual operations of the compression S, or a relative compression S*, the slope in FIG. 4 between the transmission ratio I_(real) and compression S is substantially zero, i.e. dI_(real)/dS=0. Here, the relative compression S* is defined by means of the ratio S/t, i.e. the compression S in relation to the original, non-compressed thickness t of the layer 06. Generally considered, a corresponding range for the relative compression S* can lie between 6% and 10%, in particular between 6.5% and 9%, for example. However, it can be advantageous for differentiating between the “types” of nips. For the nip between a transfer cylinder 02, 11, and a forme cylinder 01, 12, the range relevant for actual operations lies between 6% and 7%, for example, while for a nip between a transfer cylinder 02, 11 and a satellite cylinder 16 it lies between 9% and 10%. The amount of the slope dI_(real)/dS in these ranges should be at least less than or equal to 0.01 1/mm, in particular less than or equal to 0.005 1/mm. For an advantageous type of dressings the thickness t considered lies at 1.6 to 2.5 mm, for example, while for a second advantageous type of lesser resilient force, or surface pressure, and/or a lesser slope of a characteristic spring line (surface pressure/compression), the thickness lies at 3.5 to 5 mm, for example.

[0062] The printing groups, or print units, represented in FIGS. 5 to 8 are all linearly represented for the sake of simplicity, i.e. the axes of rotation of the involved cylinders are all on one plane in the representations. However, the cylinders of the printing groups can also be arranged at an angle in respect to each other, so that the following explanations apply in the same way to linear, as well as angular arrangements of cylinders, or cylinder groups.

[0063] An advantageously configured print unit 07, embodied as a so-called double printing group 07, is represented in FIGS. 5 and 6. The transfer cylinder 02, assigned to the forme cylinder 01, of a first pair of cylinders 01, 02 cooperates via a material 08 to be imprinted, for example a web 08, with a counter-pressure cylinder 11, also embodied as a transfer cylinder 11, to which a forme cylinder 12 has also been assigned. All four cylinders 01, 02, 11, 12 are mechanically driven by different drive motors 13 independently of each other (FIG. 5). In a modification, the forme and transfer cylinders 01, 02, 11, 12, respectively coupled in pairs with each other, are driven by paired drive motors 13 (at the forme cylinder 01, 12, at the transfer cylinder 02, 11, or parallel) (FIG. 6).

[0064] In a first embodiment, the forme cylinders 01, 12 and the transfer cylinders 02, 11 are embodied as cylinders 01, 02, 11, 12 of double circumference, i.e. with a circumference of essentially two vertical printed pages, in particular two newspaper pages. They are embodied with effective diameters D_(wGZ) and D_(wPZ) between 260 and 400 mm, in particular 280 to 350 mm. The transfer cylinder 02, 11 has at least one dressing 06 of a characterizing number α of 0.989 to 1.000, for example 0.989 to 0.999, on the surface of the core 04. By means of this configuration a largely slippage-free roll-off, or drive, of the cylinders 01, 02, 11, 12, largely without a moment transfer, is assured. The number of revolutions ratio I_(real) is preferably selected in such a way, that in case of a variation of the compression S, or the relative compression S*, at least within the above mentioned ranges for the relative compression S* of the appropriate cylinder pairing, it deviates by maximally 0.002, in particular 0.001, from 1.000/n. In this connection the variable n represents the ratio between the number of printed pages in the circumferential direction on the transfer cylinder 02, 11 to the number of printed pages of equal size in the circumferential direction of the forme cylinder 01, 12. Since in this embodiment the cylinders 01, 02, 11, 12 have a double circumference, n=1 applies, and the deviation is maximally 0.002, in particular 0.001, from 1.000.

[0065] In a second embodiment the forme cylinders 01, 12 and the transfer cylinders 02, 11 are embodied as cylinders 01, 02, 11, 12 of a single circumference, i.e. with a circumference of essentially one vertical printed page, in particular a newspaper page. They are embodied with effective diameters D_(wGZ) and D_(wPZ) between 150 and 200 mm. The transfer cylinder 02, 11 has at least one dressing 06 of a characterizing number α of 0.989 to 1.000, for example 0.980 to 0.995, on the surface of the core 04. Again, the number of revolutions ratio I_(real) is preferably selected in such a way that in case of a variation of the compression S, or of the relative compression S*, at least within the above mentioned range for the relative compression S*, of the appropriate cylinder pairing, it deviates by maximally 0.002, in particular 0.001, from 1.000/n, i.e. 0.002, in particular 0.001, from 1.000.

[0066] In a third embodiment, not represented, the forme cylinders 01, 12 are embodied as cylinders 01, 12 of single circumference with effective diameters D_(wPZ) between 150 and 190 mm, and the transfer cylinders 02, 11 as cylinders 02, 11 of double circumference with effective diameters D_(wGZ) between 260 and 400 mm, in particular 280 to 350 mm. The transfer cylinder 02, 11 has at least one dressing 06 with a characterizing number α of 0.987 to 1.000, in particular of 0.997 to 1.000. The number of revolutions ratio I_(real) is again preferably selected in such a way that, in case of a variation of the compression S, or of the relative compression S*, at least within the above mentioned range for the relative compression S*, of the appropriate cylinder pairing, it deviates by maximally 0.002, in particular 0.001, from 1.000/n, thus with n=2, i.e. 0.002, in particular 0.001, from 0.500.

[0067] A printing group 14 is represented in FIGS. 7 and 8, which is either a part of a larger print unit, such as a five-cylinder, nine-cylinder or ten-cylinder print unit, or can be operated as a three-cylinder print unit 14. In this case the transfer cylinder 02 cooperates with a cylinder 16 without ink, for example a counter-pressure cylinder 16, in particular a satellite cylinder 16. The “soft” surface of the transfer cylinder 02 now cooperates with the “hard” surface of the forme cylinder 01 on one side, and with the “hard” surface of the satellite cylinder 16 on the other side. The effective diameter D_(wPZ) used for the forme cylinder 01 must be correspondingly replaced in the equations for the cooperation between the transfer and satellite cylinders 16 by the diameter D_(wSZ) of the satellite cylinder 16. In one embodiment (FIG. 7) with a transfer cylinder 02 and a satellite cylinder 16 at least driven independently of each other, the one or several satellite cylinders 16 have their own drive motor 13, while the pair consisting of forme and transfer cylinders 01, 02, which are mechanically coupled, are driven by a common drive motor 13 (FIG. 7), or each by its own drive motor 13 in a manner where they are mechanically independent of each other (FIG. 8).

[0068] In a first embodiment in FIG. 6, the forme cylinder 01, the transfer cylinder 02 and the satellite cylinder 16 are embodied as cylinders of double circumference with effective diameters D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ) between 260 and 400 mm, in particular 280 to 350 mm. The transfer cylinder 02, 11 has at least one dressing with a characterizing number α of 0.990 to 0.999, in particular of 0.993 to 0.997. A largely slippage-free roll-off, or a drive of the cylinders 01, 02, 16 largely without a moment transfer, is assured by means of this configuration.

[0069] In a second embodiment for FIGS. 7 or 8, the forme cylinder 01, transfer cylinder 02 and satellite cylinder 16, are embodied as cylinders 01, 02, 16 of simple diameter, i.e. with a circumference of substantially one vertical printed page, in particular a newspaper page. They are embodied with effective diameters D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ) between 120 and 180 mm, in particular 130 to 170 mm. The transfer cylinder 02 has at least one dressing with a characterizing number α of 0.990 to 0.999, in particular of 0.993 to 0.997.

[0070] In a third embodiment, not represented, for FIGS. 7 or 8, the forme cylinder 01 is embodied as a cylinder 01 of single circumference with an effective diameter D_(wPZ) between 120 and 180 mm, in particular 130 to 170 mm, and the transfer cylinder 02, as well as the satellite cylinder 16 as cylinders 02, 16 of double circumference with effective diameters D_(wGZ), D_(wSZ) between 260 mm and 350 mm, in particular between 280 mm and 320 mm. The transfer cylinder 02, 11 has at least one dressing 06 with a characterizing number α of 0.985 to 0.995, in particular 0.990 to 0.995, on the surface of the core 04.

[0071] In a fourth embodiment, not represented, for FIGS. 7 or 8, the forme cylinder and the transfer cylinder 02 are embodied as cylinders 01, 02 with effective diameters D_(wPZ), D_(wGZ) between 120 and 180 mm, in particular 130 to 170 mm, and the satellite cylinder 16 as cylinder 02, 16 of double circumference with effective diameters D_(wGZ), D_(wSZ) between 260 mm and 350 mm, in particular between 280 mm and 320 mm. The transfer cylinder 02, 11 has at least one dressing 06 with a characterizing number α of 0.985 to 0.995, in particular 0.990 to 0.995, on the surface of the core 04. If the forme and the satellite cylinders 01, 16 are of different sizes, it is only possible to find an ideal compromise for the case in accordance with the requirements in the two nips.

[0072] As already explained above, the characterizing number α of a dressing 06 is determined by means of a measurement at a suitable device and subsequent processing by means of an algorithm. An exemplary embodiment for a measuring device, such as is particularly suitable for determining the characterizing number α, is represented in a view from above in FIG. 9, and in an enlarged lateral view in FIG. 10.

[0073] The measuring device has at least two cylinders 17, 18, or rollers 17, 18, which are rotatably seated, in particular on both ends, in a frame 19. At least one of the two cylinders 17, 18, in this case the cylinder 17, has a largely incompressible and inelastic hard surface. At least one of the cylinders 17, 18 is seated in such a way that an axial distance a between the axes of rotation of the two cylinders 17, 18 can be changed. In the exemplary embodiment, the cylinder 17, which is embodied with a “hard” surface and corresponds to the forme or satellite cylinder 01, 02, 16, is seated with its ends by means of a journal in an eccentric bushing 21 of the frame 19. In the example, the other cylinder 18 is seated fixed in place in the usual manner in the frame 19. The seating of the cylinders 17, 18 is embodied to be rigid and free of play. For the former, the bearings are embodied solidly in an appropriate way. The freedom from play is provided either by a conical seating of the bearing, or by thermally shrinking it on. However, the soft cylinder 18 can also be movably seated and the hard cylinder 17 seated fixed in place, or both cylinder 17, 19 can be movably seated. The movability can possibly also be provided by means of pivoting a lever or by a cylinder 17, 18 seated in a linear guide.

[0074] In an advantageous embodiment, the eccentric bushing 21 has an eccentricity e of twice, or four times, the thickness t of the layer 06 to be customarily measured by means of the device (n 2*t to 4*t), which for example lies between 3 and 8 mm, in particular between 4 and 6 mm for one type of layers 06, and between 8 to 16 mm, in particular between 10 and 14 mm, for a thicker type. In a base position, the position of the eccentricity e forms an angle gamma of 75 to 120°, in particular 85 to 110°, with a plane E. In this case the base position is considered to be that position of the cylinders 17, 18 in respect to each other, in which a linear contact of the two surfaces just takes place, substantially without a compression S.

[0075] In an advantageous embodiment, the twisting of the eccentric bushing 21 is performed via a lever 22, which is rigidly connected with the eccentric bushing 21 and is pivotable by means of an actuator 23 around the pivot axis of the eccentric bushing. In principle, the actuator 23 can be differently designed, for example as a motor-driven threaded spindle. In the present embodiment the actuator 23 is embodied as a cylinder 23, which can be charged by a pressure medium and is hingedly arranged on the frame 19, while its piston rod 24 is hingedly connected with the lever 22 (or vice versa).

[0076] The actuator 23 pivots the lever 22 against a detent 26, which limits the pivot movement of the eccentric bushing 21 to shorter axial distances a of the cylinders 17, 18. This detent 26 is embodied to be adjustable in the direction of the travel limitation of the lever 22, but can be fixed in place in a desired position in respect to the frame 19. In the example, a threaded bolt 27, for example a threaded spindle or a screw with a fine-pitch thread, has the detent 26 on its front face. By turning the threaded bolt 27, manually or by a motor, the detent 26 can be moved further in the direction toward the lever 22 or away from it.

[0077] In an advantageous embodiment, the movement, or the position of the eccentric bushing 21, or of the lever 22, is determined by means of a path-measuring device 28. In the present example the measurement is performed by means of a dial gauge 28 fixed in place on the frame, whose free and movable pin cooperates with the lever 22. The arrangement of a dial gauge 22 is advantageous, wherein one revolution of the pointer corresponds to a linear movement of the pin of less than 0.05 mm, in particular less than or equal to 0.02 mm. The path-measuring device 28 can, however, be embodied to be electrical and/or magnetic instead of a mechanical embodiment. In that case the measured value can then be supplied to a data processing device, not represented, either converted from a mechanical into an electrical signal, or as a directly obtained electrical signal.

[0078] An arrangement is advantageous for a high degree of measuring accuracy, wherein a distance b between the pivot shaft A and the measuring point of the path-measuring device, which is picked up at the lever 22, is large in respect to the eccentricity e. The ratio of the distance b and the eccentricity e is greater than or equal to 20 in an advantageous embodiment, in particular greater than or equal to 50. The movement of the cylinder 17 on its surface is defined by the eccentricity e, the distance b, the resolution of the path-measuring device and the known line for pivoting the axis of rotation. The measuring accuracy of a measuring device embodied in such a way has a reproducibility in the compression S of less than or equal to 0.005 mm.

[0079] In a further development, the detent is embodied to be moved by a motor, wherein the position of the detent 26 is provided, or is preset, as an electrical signal. The measured value of the path-measuring device 28 is simultaneously available in the form of an electronic signal. In this embodiment it is possible to automatically set one or several positions for the cylinder 17, or one or several axial distances a, via a data processing device, or control.

[0080] In a further embodiment, not represented, the setting of the detent 26 and the path-measuring device 18 takes place via only one means, such as a threaded spindle with a fine-pitch thread, driven by an angularly-controllable electric motor. A data processing device receives information regarding the position on the basis of the angular position, or vice versa.

[0081] For determining the compression zero point, i.e. the position in which there is merely a linear contact between the two cylinders 18, 18 without a compression S, the measuring device has, for example, one or several light sources, not represented, on one side of the gap between the cylinders 17, 18. In the course of the approach of the two cylinders toward each other it is thus possible to determine the compression zero point with the aid of the light gap at the time no more light falls through the gap. In manual operation, the light can be detected on the other side of the gap by the human eye, or during automatic operation by one or more detectors, for example. In the course of the automatic operation the signal is passed on to the data processing device, not represented. By means of the described use of light it is possible to achieve an accuracy for adjusting the compression zero point of less than or equal to 0.005 mm, in particular less than or equal to 0.002 mm.

[0082] For detecting the roll-off behavior of the two cylinders 17, 18, one of the two cylinders 17, 18 can be rotatorily driven by an external drive 29, for example an electric motor 29. For example, the electric motor 29 in FIG. 9 drives, via a drive wheel 36, for example a pulley 36, and a gear 37, for example a belt 37, in particular a toothed belt 37, a drive wheel 38, for example a pulley 38, at the hard cylinder 17, while the soft cylinder 18 is driven only by friction. However, the electric motor 29 can also drive the soft cylinder 18 by means of the belt 37, for example, while the hard cylinder 17 is driven by means of friction. In an advantageous embodiment, the electric motor can be alternately connected with the hard or the soft cylinder 17, 18. In a further development, one of the cylinders 17, 18, or even both, have an electric motor 29, which drives them and is positionally controlled or at least rpm-controlled. A negative effect on the roll-off behavior because of one of the cylinders 17, 18 being driven by friction is reduced by using bearings with extremely low friction. A maximum deviation in the measured transmission ratio I from the “true” transmission ratio I of maximally 0.01% can be achieved in this way.

[0083] The angular velocity, or the respective angle of rotation position of the two cylinders 17, 18 can be measured by means of rotary sensors 31, 32, for example opto-electronic angle decoders, respectively arranged at the cylinder 17, 18, or on an appropriate journal.

[0084] For preventing an interruption of the contact between the two cylinders 17, 18 rolling off on each other, the hard cylinder 17 in an advantageous manner has a continuous uninterrupted surface in the area in which it rolls off on the soft cylinder 18. However, this can also be achieved in that “replacement printing formes”, which are possibly located on the surface, are arranged offset from each other (for example 180°) in the circumferential direction or, if the hard cylinder 17 only has a finite replacement printing forme, that the joint, or groove, being created is closed off flush with the surface by a cover 33 (see FIG. 9 for an example). The same applies to the soft cylinder 18, wherein two dressings 06, offset in respect to each other by 180° in the circumferential direction and a cover 34, maximally extending over half the cylinder length, are represented by way of example in FIG. 9. This arrangement of the dressings 06 assures a continuous contact of one of the dressings 06 with the hard cylinder 17.

[0085] The angular velocity of both cylinders 17, 18, and possible leads or lags, are detected for different compressions S in a highly accurate manner by the rotary sensors 31, 32 and a downstream-connected electronic device. Driving can be provided alternately by means of the hard or the soft cylinder. Now, for adjusting the axial distance a, the moved cylinder 17, 18 is displaced in its eccentric bushing in that the latter is twisted.

[0086] The above explained displacement is in particular designed to be easier than with a printing press. The compression end point is now determined by means of the light gap between the surfaces (for example a neon tube underneath the roller gap). By means of the sensitive adjustment (detent 26) the compression S is now exactly set and measured (path-measuring device 26).

[0087] As described above, the characterizing number α is now determined for a compression S (for S>0) through knowledge of the geometries of the cylinders 17, 18, as well as the measuring point, or measuring points, by means of algebraic specifications, such as the equations [5], [8] and [9].

[0088] List of Reference Symbols

[0089]01 Roller, cylinder, forme cylinder, counter-pressure cylinder

[0090]02 Roller, cylinder, transfer cylinder

[0091]03 Roller gap

[0092]04 Core

[0093]05 -

[0094]06 Layer, rubber blanket, dressing

[0095]07 Print unit, double printing group

[0096]08 Material to be imprinted, web

[0097]09 -

[0098]10 -

[0099]11 Roller, cylinder, forme cylinder, counter-pressure cylinder

[0100]12 Roller, cylinder, transfer cylinder

[0101]13 Drive motor

[0102]14 Print unit, three-cylinder print unit

[0103]15 -

[0104]16 Roller, cylinder, counter-pressure cylinder, satellite cylinder

[0105]17 Roller, cylinder

[0106]18 Roller, cylinder

[0107]19 Frame

[0108]20 -

[0109]21 Eccentric bushing

[0110]22 Lever

[0111]23 Actuator, cylinder

[0112]24 Piston rod

[0113]25 -

[0114]26 Detent

[0115]27 Thread bolt

[0116]28 Path-measuring device, dial gauge

[0117]29 Drive mechanism, electric motor

[0118]30 -

[0119]31 Rotary sensor

[0120]32 Rotary sensor

[0121]33 Cover

[0122]34 Cover

[0123]35 -

[0124]36 Drive wheel, pulley

[0125]37 Gear, belt, toothed belt

[0126]38 Drive wheel, pulley

[0127] D_(wGZ) Diameter

[0128] D_(wPZ) Diameter

[0129] D_(wGZK) Diameter

[0130] D_(wSZ) Diameter

[0131] omega Circular frequency

[0132] W_(GZ) Frequency

[0133] W_(PZ) Frequency

[0134] a Distance

[0135] A Difference

[0136] A₀ Cross-sectional surface

[0137] A₁ Cross-sectional surface

[0138] b Distance

[0139] B Difference

[0140] e Eccentricity

[0141] E Plane

[0142] α Characterizing number

[0143] gamma Angle (e, E)

[0144] I Number of revolutions ratio, transmission ratio

[0145] I_(real) Number of revolutions ratio, transmission ratio, actual

[0146] I_(komp) Number of revolutions ratio, transmission ratio, compressible

[0147] I_(inkomp) Number of revolutions ratio, transmission ratio, incompressible

[0148] L Length

[0149] n Variable

[0150] n_(GZ) Number of revolutions

[0151] n_(pZ) Number of revolutions

[0152] S Compression

[0153] S* Compression, relative

[0154] t Thickness

[0155] v₀ Velocity

[0156] v₁ Velocity

[0157] v_(p) Surface velocity

[0158] v_(Gi) Velocity

[0159] v_(Ga) Velocity 

1. A method for determining a characterizing number (α), which characterizes the roll-off behavior of an elastic layer (06), in that in a measuring device with two rollers (17, 18), which roll off on each other, a number of revolutions ratio (I_(real)) between the roller supporting the layer (06) and the other roller (17, 18) as a function of a compression (S) is measured, in that for the same compression (S) the extreme values, theoretically resulting for the purely compressible and the purely incompressible case, of the number of revolution ratios (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) are determined, and subsequently the measured number of revolution ratio (I_(real)) is brought into a relationship, at least over a section, with the theoretically determined number of revolution ratios (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) in accordance with an algebraic specification in order to form the constant characterizing number (α), corrected for the geometry of the measuring device, at least over a section.
 2. A method for dimensioning a roller (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) of a print unit, wherein the roll-off behavior of an elastic layer (06) is determined by means of a measuring device, and on the basis of a predetermined diameter (D_(wGZK), D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ)) of one of the rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16), a suitable diameter (D_(wGZK), D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ)) of the other roller (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) is determined.
 3. The method in accordance with claim 2, characterized in that a characterizing number (α) which characterizes the roll-off behavior of the elastic layer (6) is determined, and the suitable diameter (D_(wGZK), D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ)) is determined by means of an algebraic specification, taking into consideration the characterizing number (α) and the thickness (t) of the layer (06).
 4. The method in accordance with claim 3, characterized in that the characterizing number (α) of the layer 06 is initially formed by a measurement performed by a measuring device, and subsequent correction for the geometry of the measuring device by means of the same algebraic specification.
 5. The method in accordance with claim 1 or 3, characterized in that the algebraic specification expresses the relative position of the measured number of revolutions ration (I_(real)) in respect to the extreme values for the number of revolution ratio (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) of the respective compression (S).
 6. A method for selecting a layer (06) on a roller (01, 02, 11, 12, 16), wherein initially the extreme values theoretically resulting for the purely compressible and the purely incompressible case of the number of revolutions ratio (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) are determined, at least in sections, as a function of a compression (S) from the predetermined printing group geometry, a desired relative position for the number of revolutions ratio (I_(real)) of an actual layer (06) in respect to the extreme values of the number of revolutions ratio (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) are fixed, at least in sections, and by means of bringing into relation, at least in sections, the desired course with the theoretically determined courses of the extreme values (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) by means of an algebraic specification, a characterizing number (α), corrected for the specific geometry, is formed for the desired layer (06).
 7. The method in accordance with claim 6, characterized in that the characterizing number (α) of the layer 06 is initially formed by a measurement performed by a measuring device, and subsequent correction for the geometry of the measuring device by means of the same algebraic specification.
 8. The method in accordance with claim 6, characterized in that the algebraic specification expresses the relative position of the measured number of revolutions ratio (I_(real)) in respect to the extreme values for the number of revolution ratio (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) of the respective compression (S).
 9. A print unit with at least two cooperating rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16), wherein at least one of the rollers (02, 11) has an elastic layer (06) on its surface, and the other roller 01, 12, 16) has a largely undeformable surface, characterized in that the layer (06) has, at least for an area of a relative compression (S*), a characterizing number (α) between 0.980 and 1.000, which describes its elastic properties, wherein the characterizing number is formed by the algebraic specification $\alpha = \frac{I_{real} - I_{inkomp}}{I_{komp} - I_{inkomp}}$

wherein (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) represents a number of revolutions ratio for the extreme cases of a purely compressible, or purely incompressible layer (06), and I_(real) a desired number of revolutions ratio.
 10. The print unit in accordance with claim 9, characterized in that in case of a variation of the relative compression (S*) of the layer (06), the number of revolutions ratio I_(real) deviates from 1.000/n in the range of at most 0.002, in particular 0.001, wherein n represents the ratio between the number of printed pages in the circumferential direction on the roller (02, 11) with the layer (06) to the number of printed pages on the other roller (01, 12, 16).
 11. A print unit with at least two cooperating rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16), wherein at least one of the rollers (01, 02, 11, 11, 12, 16) is driven by a drive motor (13), which is mechanically independent of the other roller (01, 02, 11, 12, 16), and wherein at least one of the rollers (02, 11) has an elastic layer (06) on its surface, and the other roller (01, 12, 16) has a largely undeformable surface, characterized in that the layer (06) and the geometries of the two rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) are alternatingly matched to each other in such a way that in case of a variation at least in a section of the relative compression (S*) of the layer (06), a number of revolutions ratio I_(real) deviates from 1.000/n in the range of at most 0.002, wherein n represents the ratio between the number of printed pages in the circumferential direction on the roller (02, 11) with the layer (06) to the number of printed pages on the other roller (01, 12, 16).
 12. The print unit in accordance with claim 11, characterized in that in case of a variation of the relative compression (S*) of the layer (06), the number of revolutions ratio I_(real) deviates from 1.000/n in the range of at most 0.001, wherein n represents the ratio between the number of printed pages in the circumferential direction on the roller (02, 11) with the layer (06) to the number of printed pages on the other roller (01, 12, 16).
 13. A print unit with at least two cooperating rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16), wherein at least one of the rollers (02, 11) has an elastic layer (06) on its surface, and the other roller 01, 12, 16) has a largely undeformable surface, characterized in that the layer (06) and the geometries of the two rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) are alternatingly matched to each other in such a way that at least for the area of a relative compression (S*) the differential quotient (dI_(real)/dS) between the number of revolutions ratio (I_(real)) and the compression (S) deviates maximally by 0.01 1/mm from zero.
 14. The print unit in accordance with claim 11 or 13, characterized in that the layer (06) has a characterizing number (α) of 0.980 to 1.000 for the area of the relative compression (S*), wherein the characterizing number is formed by the algebraic specification $\alpha = \frac{I_{real} - I_{inkomp}}{I_{komp} - I_{inkomp}}$

wherein (I_(komp), I_(inkomp)) represents a number of revolutions ratio for the extreme cases of a purely compressible, or purely incompressible layer (06), and I_(real) a desired number of revolutions ratio.
 15. The print unit in accordance with claim 9 or 13, characterized in that at least for the area of a relative compression (S*) the differential quotient (dI_(real)/dS) between the number of revolutions ratio (I_(real)) and the compression (S) deviates maximally by 0.01 1/mm from zero.
 16. The print unit in accordance with claim 15, characterized in that the differential quotient (dI_(real)/dS) is substantially zero.
 17. The print unit in accordance with one or several of claims 9 to 15, characterized in that the area of the relative compression (S*) for the nip between a roller (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) embodied as transfer cylinder (02, 11) and a roller embodied as forme cylinder (01, 11) lies between 6% and 7%.
 18. The print unit in accordance with one or several of claims 9 to 15, characterized in that the area of the relative compression (S*) for the nip between a roller embodied as transfer cylinder (02, 11) and a roller embodied as satellite cylinder (16) lies between 9% and 10%.
 19. The print unit in accordance with claim 9 or 14, characterized in that the two rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) have respective effective diameters (D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ)) between 260 and 400 mm, and the layer (06) a characterizing number (α) between 0.989 and 1.000.
 20. The print unit in accordance with claim 9 or 14, characterized in that the two rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) have respective effective diameters (D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ)) between 150 and 190 mm, and the layer (06) a characterizing number (α) between 0.980 and 0.995.
 21. The print unit in accordance with claim 9 or 14, characterized in that the roller (02, 11) having the elastic layer (06) has an effective diameter (D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ)) between 260 and 400 mm, and the other layer (01, 16) has-an effective diameter (D_(wGZ), D_(wPZ)) between 150 and 190 mm, and the layer (06) a characterizing number (α) between 0.987 and 1.000.
 22. The print unit in accordance with claim 9, 11 or 13, characterized in that the roller (02, 11) having the elastic layer (06) is embodied as a transfer cylinder (02, 11), and the roller (01, 12) having the mainly undeformable surface is embodied as a forme cylinder (01, 12).
 23. The print unit in accordance with claim 9, 11 or 13, characterized in that the roller (02, 11) having the elastic layer (06) is embodied as a transfer cylinder (02, 11), and the roller (16) having the mainly undeformable surface is embodied as a satellite cylinder (16).
 24. The print unit in accordance with claim 9, 11 or 13, characterized in that the two rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) are embodied as cooperating rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) on an inking group.
 25. The print unit in accordance with claim 24, characterized in that one of the rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) is driven by a motor, and the other of the rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) is driven merely by friction.
 26. The print unit in accordance with claim 22, characterized in that the transfer cylinder (02, 11) cooperates with a third roller (16) embodied as a satellite cylinder (16), which is driven by a drive motor (13) mechanically independently from the first two rollers (01, 02, 11, 12).
 27. The print unit in accordance with claim 9, 11, 13, 22, 23 or 26, characterized in that the first two rollers (01, 02, 11, 12) are driven in pairs by a common drive motor (13).
 28. The print unit in accordance with claim 9, 11, 13, 22, 23 or 26, characterized in that the two rollers (01, 02, 11, 12, 16) are driven by means of two drive motors (13) mechanically independently of each other.
 29. A device for determining the roll-off behavior of an elastic layer (06), wherein an axial distance (a) between a roller (18) supporting an elastic layer (06) and a roller (17) having a substantially undeformable surface can be changed and a number of revolutions ratio (I_(real)) between the two rollers (17, 18) can be determined, characterized in that at least one of the rollers (17, 18) is seated in eccentric bushings (21) in a frame (19).
 30. The device in accordance with claim 29, characterized in that a lever (22), which transmits the movement of the roller (17) and whose movement can be determined by means of a path-measuring device (28), is rigidly connected with the eccentric bushing (21).
 31. A device for determining the roll-off behavior of an elastic layer (06), wherein an axial distance (a) between a roller (18) supporting an elastic layer (06) and a roller (17) having a substantially undeformable surface can be changed and a number of revolutions ratio (I_(real)) between the two rollers (17, 18) can be determined, characterized in that a change in the axial distance (a) can be detected by a path-measuring device (28) on a lever (22) which transmits the movement of the roller (17).
 32. The device in accordance with claim 31, characterized in that at least one of the two rollers (17, 18) is seated in eccentric bushings (21), with each of which a lever (22) is rigidly connected.
 33. The device in accordance with claim 29 or 32, characterized in that a ratio between a distance (b) of a pivot shaft (A) from a measuring point of the path-measuring device (28) at the lever (22) and an eccentricity (e) is greater than or equal to
 20. 34. The device in accordance with claim 29 or 32, characterized in that the eccentricity (e) forms an angle of 75 to 120° with a plane (E), defined by the axes of rotation of the rollers (17, 18), in a position of the cylinders (17, 18), in which a linear contact of the two surfaces with each other takes place.
 35. The device in accordance with claim 29 or 32, characterized in that a respective angular velocity and/or angle of rotation position can be detected by a rotary sensor (31, 32) provided per roller (17, 18).
 36. The device in accordance with claim 29 or 32, characterized in that one of the rollers (17, 18) is driven by an external drive (29), and the other roller (18, 17) merely by friction with the first.
 37. The device in accordance with claim 36, characterized in that the drive (29) can be assigned alternatively to one or the other roller (17, 18).
 38. The device in accordance with claim 30 or 31, characterized in that the path-measuring device (28) is embodied as a dial gauge (22) with a resolution of less than or equal to 0.05 mm/360°.
 39. The device in accordance with claim 30 or 31, characterized in that a positionally displaceable detent (26) for the lever (22) is provided.
 40. The device in accordance with claim 30 or 31, characterized in that the lever (22) can be pivoted by means of an actuator (23) .
 41. The device in accordance with claim 39 and 40, characterized in that the lever (22) can be placed against the detent (26) by means of an actuator (23) embodied as a cylinder (23), which can be charged with a pressure medium.
 42. The device in accordance with claim 29 or 31, characterized in that a light source is provided on one side of the gap between the roller (17, 18) for determining a compression zero point. 